Ben Simmons will miss the remainder of the season for the Brooklyn Nets.
It is the third straight year his season has ended early because of back problems.
The Nets said that Simmons will consult with specialists and seek treatment options for the pinched nerve in his lower back that has sidelined him twice this season.
Simmons’ tenure with the Nets might be all but over. The 27-year-old has not been able to stay healthy.
He still has one more season under contract with the Nets. Brooklyn could look to trade him this summer, but it might be difficult to find a trade partner for him.
Therefore, the Nets could simply cut their loses with Simmons and buy him out.
According to Bovada sportsbook, the Toronto Raptors are among the favorites to sign Simmons in the offseason if he is bought out by the Nets:
The Minnesota Timberwolves are the favorites to sign Ben Simmons if he’s bought out by Brooklyn in the offseason, per @BovadaOfficial
Minnesota Timberwolves: +225
Golden State Warriors: +250
Toronto Raptors: +275
Sacramento Kings: +400
San Antonio Spurs: +500(Via… pic.twitter.com/AoAUM9RjgO
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 9, 2024
The Raptors have been linked to Simmons in the past. However, given the forward’s inability to stay on the court it would be a huge risk to take.
Also the Raptors need to prioritize three-point shooting around Scottie Barnes.
Simmons is a solid defensive player, but he is a liability on offense especially when it comes to his shooting.
Raptors free agency
The Raptors already made their big decisions when they traded pending free agents O.G. Anunoby and Pascal Siakam
However, Toronto will still have other things to address. They first need to lock up Immanuel Quickley who is a restricted free agent. They certainly will, but the terms of the deal need to be sorted out.
The Raptors biggest decision will be what they will do with current unrestricted free agent Gary Trent Jr.
Will the Raptors be willing to dip into their pockets to bring him back? Or will they let him walk and have Gradey Dick takeover his role? Time will tell.
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